A few of the companies we’ve worked with
What Factors Influence Bus Rental Pricing in Fond du Lac?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all price tag for charter bus rentals because every group’s needs are different. A quick transfer from the Fond du Lac County Airport to a local hotel will cost significantly less than a week-long tour of the Great Lakes. To give you the most accurate quote possible, our reservation specialists calculate your rate based on several key variables. Understanding these factors can help you plan your budget more effectively.
Trip Duration and Distance: The most significant factors in your quote are how long you need the bus and how far you are traveling. Local trips within Fond du Lac—such as a shuttle between Marian University (45 S National Ave, Fond du Lac, WI 54935) and downtown—are billed by the hour with a five-hour minimum. Long-distance trips, such as traveling from Fond du Lac to Chicago or Minneapolis, are billed by the day or by mileage.
Time of Year: Seasonality plays a huge role in the transportation industry. Demand in Fond du Lac spikes during specific times, such as prom season (April through June) and during major local events like Walleye Weekend at Lakeside Park (555 N Park Ave, Fond du Lac, WI 54935). Booking during these peak times often results in higher rates due to limited vehicle availability. Conversely, traveling during the winter months (January and February) can often yield lower prices.
Vehicle Type: The size and luxury level of the bus you choose will impact the price. A 56-passenger motorcoach with an onboard restroom and vast luggage space will cost more than a compact 18-passenger minibus or a sprinter van. We will help you select the vehicle that fits your passenger count perfectly so you aren't paying for empty seats.
Route Logistics: Your pickup and drop-off locations matter. If your trip starts in a remote area far from our garage, "deadhead" miles (the distance the bus travels empty to reach you) may influence the cost. Fortunately, Charter Bus Rental Company Fond du Lac services the entire state, minimizing these costs for local groups.
Estimated Charter Bus Rates for Fond du Lac Trips
To help you budget for your upcoming event, we have compiled average pricing ranges based on our historical data in the Wisconsin market. Please keep in mind that these are estimates. For an exact figure tailored to your specific itinerary, you must call our team or use our online quote tool.
- Minibuses (18- 25 passengers ): Range from $150 to $400+ per hour, or $1,500 to $3,000+ per day. These are perfect for wedding shuttles , corporate team outings to outings at Thelma Sadoff Center for the Arts, or small group tours.
- Charter Buses (56 passengers): Range from $180 to $500+ per hour, or $1,800 to $3,800+ per day. These full-size coaches are ideal for large school field trips , sports team transportation , and long-distance travel.
- Sprinter Vans (10-14 passengers): Rates start around $150 per hour depending on amenities and luxury finishes.
It is important to note that at Charter Bus Rental Company Fond du Lac, our quotes are all-inclusive of the driver's pay, fuel, and gratuity. We believe in transparent pricing, so you won't be hit with added service fees after your trip concludes. However, items such as parking permits, road tolls, and driver lodging (for overnight trips) are the responsibility of the client.
The Impact of Vehicle Type on Your Quote
Selecting the right vehicle is the best way to manage your transportation budget. Our fleet in Fond du Lac includes a wide variety of options, and choosing the right one depends on your group size and the amenities you require.
If you are transporting a varsity sports team from Fond du Lac High School to a tournament in Madison, a 56-passenger charter bus is the most economical and comfortable choice. While the daily rate is higher than smaller vehicles, the cost-per-person is often the lowest. These buses come equipped with undercarriage storage for equipment, onboard restrooms to minimize stops, and reclining seats for rest. Paying a bit more for a full-size coach ensures that athletes arrive rested and equipment is secure.
Conversely, if you are organizing a corporate dinner for 20 executives at scenic restaurants near Lake Winnebago, a minibus is a cost-effective alternative. You save money by not paying for a massive coach you don't need, while still enjoying premium amenities like leather seating, climate control, and WiFi. Our reservation specialists are experts at matching your group with the vehicle that provides the best value for your specific needs.
Seasonal Demand in the Lake Winnebago Region
Like hotels and airlines, charter bus rental pricing is dynamic and fluctuates with demand. In Fond du Lac, the busiest months for group transportation are late spring and early summer. April, May, and June see a surge in demand due to end-of-year school field trips, proms, graduations at Marian University and UW-Oshkosh, and the beginning of wedding season.
Additionally, major regional events can impact availability and pricing. For example, during the EAA AirVenture in nearby Oshkosh, demand for buses across the entire Fox Valley region skyrockets. Similarly, weekends featuring Green Bay Packers home games can tighten the supply of large motorcoaches.
To secure the best rates, we recommend booking at least 3 to 6 months in advance. If your trip falls during a peak time like Walleye Weekend or homecoming, booking 6 to 9 months out is even better. However, if you are planning a trip during the "off-season" winter months, you may find more flexibility and lower daily rates—perfect for a hockey team trip or a winter wedding shuttle.
Trip Distance and Duration: Local vs. Long-Distance
How we calculate your bill depends heavily on the scope of your itinerary. For local trips within Fond du Lac—such as a wedding shuttle moving guests between the Radisson Hotel and Convention Center (625 W Rolling Meadows Dr, Fond du Lac, WI 54937) and a local ceremony site—we apply an hourly rate. Most rentals require a minimum number of hours (usually 4 or 5) to ensure the booking is viable for the driver and the vehicle's schedule.
For long-distance trips, such as a church group traveling to Nashville or a school trip to Washington D.C., pricing switches to a daily rate or a per-mile calculation. In these scenarios, the quote covers the exclusive use of the bus for the day. It is important to remember that Department of Transportation regulations limit drivers to 10 hours of driving time and 15 hours of on-duty time per day. If your itinerary exceeds these limits, you may need to budget for a second driver, which will impact your total cost.
Additional Costs to Consider for Your Budget
While Charter Bus Rental Company Fond du Lac provides comprehensive quotes that include the bus, driver, fuel, and gratuity, there are third-party expenses that you should include in your travel budget. These are costs that are paid directly by you or reimbursed to the driver.
- Parking Fees: If you are attending a sporting event at Lambeau Field or American Family Field, or visiting attractions in downtown Chicago, you will be responsible for the cost of bus parking. In Fond du Lac, parking is easier to find, but verify with venues like the Fond du Lac County Fairgrounds beforehand.
- Tolls: While Wisconsin has very few toll roads, if your trip takes you into Illinois, Indiana, or further east, you will be responsible for toll charges incurred during the journey.
- Driver Lodging: For multi-day trips where the group stays overnight, you must provide a private hotel room for your driver. This ensures they are well-rested and compliant with safety regulations. Ask your hotel about discounted rates for drivers when booking your group block.
Book Your Fond du Lac Charter Bus Today!
Now that you understand the factors that go into charter bus pricing, the next step is to get a specific number for your trip. Charter Bus Rental Company Fond du Lac is dedicated to making this process as simple as possible. We offer modern, reliable vehicles and a customer service team that is second to none.
Don't let transportation logistics stress you out. Whether you are planning a simple airport transfer or a complex multi-day tour, we have the expertise to handle it. Call our 24/7 reservation team at 920-305-9030 today. We can provide you with a free, personalized quote in less than 30 seconds. Let us handle the driving so you can focus on enjoying your time in Fond du Lac!
Frequently Asked Questions About Fond du Lac Pricing
How far in advance should I book my bus in Fond du Lac?
We strongly recommend booking your charter bus as soon as your date and venue are confirmed. Ideally, you should book 3 to 6 months in advance. If you are traveling during peak seasons, such as May, June, or during major regional events like EAA AirVenture, booking 6 to 9 months in advance is advisable to ensure availability and the best possible pricing. However, we can often accommodate last-minute requests, so don't hesitate to call us at 920-305-9030 regardless of your timeline.
Is a deposit required to reserve a bus?
Yes, a deposit is required to lock in your reservation and take the bus off the market for your specific dates. This deposit confirms your booking. The remaining balance is due a few weeks prior to your departure date. Our reservation specialists will explain the payment schedule clearly when you receive your quote.
What is included in the quote?
At Charter Bus Rental Company Fond du Lac, we believe in transparent pricing. Your quote includes the cost of the bus rental, the driver's services, fuel, and the driver's gratuity. It does not include parking fees at your destination, tolls, or the driver's hotel room for overnight trips. You will need to budget for these items separately.
Can we drink alcohol on the bus?
In most cases, yes, adult passengers of legal drinking age are permitted to consume alcohol on the bus, provided you have notified us in advance. A refundable cleaning deposit may be required. However, for school trips or events involving minors, alcohol is strictly prohibited on board. Please discuss your plans with our reservation team when booking to ensure compliance with all safety policies.
Do you service areas outside of Fond du Lac?
Absolutely! While we are proud to serve Fond du Lac, our service area extends throughout the entire state of Wisconsin and beyond. Whether you need a charter bus in Green Bay , a shuttle in Madison, a bus rental in Milwaukee, or transportation to Chicago, we can help. We can pick up your group in Fond du Lac and take you anywhere in the continental United States.